Entry Level Food Science Jobs in Wheeling, IL (NOW HIRING)

The Sample Processing Specialist is responsible for supporting Ajinomoto Health & Nutrition North America's sample room operations and laboratory activities at the Itasca Innovation Center. This role manages sample fulfillment activities, including sample preparation, repacking, inventory stocking, shipment execution, Salesforce transaction processing, and sample room organization. The position partners closely with R&D, Sales, and Supply Chain teams to ensure accurate and timely sample fulfillment while maintaining inventory accuracy, product traceability, and sample room efficiency.

Education, Certifications and Experience: High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate degree in Food Science, Biology, Chemistry, Supply Chain, or related field preferred, but not required. 0–2 years of experience in a laboratory, food manufacturing, warehouse, inventory, fulfillment, or related environment. Experience with inventory management systems, Salesforce, shipping systems, or laboratory operations is a plus. Ability to follow standard operating procedures (SOPs), safety requirements, and documentation practices.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Strong organizational skills and attention to detail. Ability to accurately manage inventory, labeling, documentation, and recordkeeping. Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Basic proficiency with Microsoft Office and inventory management systems. Ability to learn and utilize Salesforce for sample fulfillment, inventory management, and replenishment workflows. Strong teamwork and communication skills. Ability to work independently with minimal supervision. Knowledge of basic food laboratory practices, GMPs (Good Manufacturing Practices), and safety procedures preferred. Ability to maintain accuracy while performing repetitive tasks.

Working Conditions / Physical Requirements: Ability to stand, walk, bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions for extended periods. Ability to routinely lift and move materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Ability to work in laboratory, warehouse, shipping, and storage environments. Ability to safely handle food ingredients, packaging materials, and laboratory equipment. Ability to maintain compliance with company safety and food quality requirements.

Responsibilities: Fulfill customer and internal sample requests by picking, packing, labeling, and preparing shipments in accordance with established procedures. Process and update sample fulfillment records, shipment information, and inventory transactions within Salesforce. Receive, stock, organize, and maintain finished goods, repacked samples, and related materials within the sample room. Perform sample repacking activities, including weighing, packaging, labeling, and stocking replenished inventory. Maintain accurate lot traceability and inventory records for all sample room activities. Conduct routine inventory counts and reconciliations to ensure inventory accuracy. Remove expired, damaged, or obsolete samples from inventory and dispose of materials in accordance with company procedures. Maintain sample room cleanliness, organization, and operational efficiency. Print and prepare labels, shipping documents, and sample-related paperwork as required. Clean, sanitize, and maintain laboratory equipment, workspaces, and shared R&D areas. Support routine equipment maintenance, calibration activities, and laboratory housekeeping tasks. Identify sample room supply needs and communicate requirements to Supply Chain for replenishment. Follow all laboratory safety, GMP, food safety, and company operating procedures. Support continuous improvement initiatives related to sample fulfillment, inventory management, and laboratory operations. Other duties as assigned.

Salary Range: $20.00-$21.00 per hour

EEO Statement: Ajinomoto is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis protected by state, federal, or local law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.